“DON’T BRAY”

Southland Times, Issue 22731, 6 November 1935, Page 7

“DON’T BRAY”

COUNCILLOR’S REQUEST.

REMARK WITHDRAWN.

After three and a. half hours’ session last evening the tempers of some of the councillors became slightly frayed, as was evident when the question of salary restorations was under discussion. Councillor H. Ritchie, chairman _of the Finance Committee, when explaining why the Finance Committee recommended holding over the matter until December, said it was felt that the applications were due in some measure to the election. Councillor E. J. McLauchlan rose and commenced to speak. “It’s no use your braying like a donkey,” said Councillor Ritchie. “I rise to a point of order," said Councillor McLauchlan.

“Oh, sit down and don’t bray,” said Councillor Ritchie.

“I have risen to a point of order. Will your Worship ask Councillor Ritchie to sit down,” said Councillor McLauchlan. “You must withdraw that remark,” the Mayor told Councillor Ritchie. “Well, he’s not a donkey, so I’ll withdraw it,” agreed Councillor Ritchie, who repeated his remark that the election had a bearing on the applications for restoration of salaries.

“There’s no doubt Councillor Ritchie is right,” said the Mayor. “I deny it emphatically,” said Councillor W. M. C. Denham. “It is a most unwarrantable reflection. I have not been influenced by the election hi the matter.”

“I have not stated that you have,” replied Councillor Ritchie. “I admire your championing of the cause of the men. What I said was that the applications of the men were influenced by this being election year. That is my opinion and I am entitled to express it.” “I see Councillor Ritchie’s point and I unreservedly apologize,” said Councillor Denham.

The discussion then proceeded with less friction.